2027: SDP Presidential Candidate Adewole Adebayo Explains Why He Supports Fuel Subsidy Return

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, has explained why he supports a carefully considered return of fuel subsidy, arguing that the policy could help reduce energy costs and ease the burden on businesses ahead of the 2027 general election.

Adebayo’s position comes amid ongoing debate over petrol prices and the economic impact of subsidy removal by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. While the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government has maintained its position on subsidy removal, some opposition figures have called for a review of the policy.

In a statement outlining his position, Adebayo’s campaign team, the Movement Adebayo for President (MAP), said a carefully designed return of fuel subsidy could help lower energy costs and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which continue to face operating challenges.

The campaign team said Adebayo’s broader economic agenda includes investment in agriculture, affordable energy, domestic refining, energy logistics, industrial development and improved electricity distribution. It argued that reliable and affordable power is essential to expanding manufacturing, creating jobs and strengthening Nigerian businesses.

MAP also highlighted Adebayo’s policy manifesto, which it said runs to 117 pages and contains proposals, implementation timelines and strategies for addressing the country’s challenges. The campaign described the document as evidence of the candidate’s approach to policy development and national planning.

On youth development, the campaign team said Adebayo intended to prioritise education, skills acquisition and empowerment programmes to improve opportunities for young Nigerians. It also pointed to his campaign slogan, “Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity”, as a reflection of his stated priorities.

On security, MAP said Adebayo had proposed retraining and equipping security personnel, alongside improving their remuneration. The campaign argued that effective national security requires adequate support for those tasked with protecting lives and property.

The team further cited Adebayo’s reported experience working with the United Nations and the African Union on peacebuilding initiatives, as well as his involvement with Liberia’s Peace and Reconciliation Commission. It said the experience could help strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic relationships, attract investment and build confidence among international partners.

MAP also emphasised transparency, accountability and citizen participation in government, arguing that inclusive leadership would be important in addressing divisions across religious and regional lines. The campaign urged Nigerians to consider alternative political leadership ahead of the 2027 election.

Adebayo’s position adds to the growing debate over how presidential contenders intend to tackle fuel prices, inflation, unemployment and the cost of doing business. While his campaign believes a carefully considered subsidy return could offer relief, the proposal is likely to fuel further discussion about affordability, public spending and the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s energy policy.